Topic: Immune Conditions

Immune disorders are the chronic conditions of the immune system that affect the immune response and the body’s ability to protect and defend itself against infection. Immune disorders generally result from a deficiency or absence of some component or structure of immune function.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome Definition A constellation of symptoms that result from exposure to common chemicals at levels that do not normally cause response or reaction. Multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome is difficult to diagnose and treat. Symptoms are often broad ranging. There remains disagreement among medical experts (doctors and researchers) about the diagnostic criteria and […]

Partial Combined immunodeficiency Disorder Definition An immune disorder in which the immune system is missing key components. Most often people who have PCID lack certain leukocytes (white blood cells), which impairs their ability to form antibodies (develop immunity) and fight infection. The abnormality might be with cell differentiation, maturity, or function. Sometimes PCID involves deficits of complement […]

Rheumatoid Arthritis Definition Rheumatoid Arthritis – a chronic, autoimmune disorder in which nodules and inflammation develop within the synovial capsules of the joints, causing erosion of the bone and connective tissues, eventually deforming the joint. Synovial membranes encapsulate the joints and secrete synovial fluid, which lubricates the structures of the joint so they move smoothly […]

Sarcoidosis Definition An inflammatory disorder in which multiple granulomas (nodules of hardened lymph and fibrous tissues) form in organs and tissues throughout the body. Sarcoidosis most commonly affects the lungs, liver, lymph nodes, eyes, and skin, though can affect any body structure. The granulomas typically have alternating growth and remission stages, though generally cause permanent scarring. Though most […]

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease Definition A rare, genetic immune disorder in which an infant is born with severely deficient immune capability due to the absence of leukocytes. Because the infant receives passive immunity from his or her mother at birth (and through breastfeeding), the deficiency often is not apparent until age three to six months or […]

Sjögren’s Syndrome Definition An autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that provide moisture for the mucous membranes, notably the lacrimal (tear) glands and the salivary glands. Sjögren’s syndrome exists in one of three forms: Primary, in which the only structures it affects are the exocrine glands and the main symptom is dryness Secondary, in which […]

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Definition A chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune response creates antibodies that attack the cells of various organs. SLE is a type III hypersensitivity reaction (immune complex reaction) that most commonly develops between the ages of 15 and 40. Nine times as many women than men have SLE, and SLE is three times more common […]

Vasculitis Definition Vasculitis – a group of autoimmune disorders in which the epithelium (lining) of the blood vessels becomes inflamed. The inflammation causes localized pain and swelling. There are numerous forms of vasculitis. They share common characteristics and symptoms though each of which has unique traits. Vasculitis may be acute (come on suddenly, run its course, and be over) or chronic (symptoms […]

Definition of Goodpasture’s Syndrome An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies that attack the glomeruli in the kidneys, impairing kidney function, and the alveoli in the lungs, causing bleeding into the lung tissue. In most people who develop Goodpasture’s syndrome the symptoms follow a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract or exposure to […]

Definition of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder, also called cutaneous lupus erythematosus, in which roughly circular, reddened patches (erythematous lesions) form on the skin. The lesions are most common on the face, back of the neck, scalp, inner lips and mouth, and outer portions of the auditory (EAR) canals. […]